Leclerc (finger) could be cleared to throw off a mound Friday, T.R. Sullivan of MLB.com reports.
Leclerc, who is working his way back from a bruised right index finger, resumed playing catch Wednesday and experienced no issues, so he'll be able to move on to the next phase of the recovery process. After Leclerc tosses a bullpen session and faces hitters in batting practice, the Rangers could have him head out for what would likely be a brief rehab assignment. Prior to landing on the disabled list, Leclerc had turned in a 2.31 ERA, 0.94 WHIP and 18 strikeouts in 11.2 innings. Once he's activated, Leclerc will likely slot in as one of the top setup men to closer Matt Bush.